President Obama Issues Statement On Andy Griffith's Death

News of television icon Andy Griffith's death reached the White House on Tuesday afternoon, and President Barack Obama released a heartfelt statement about the actor's passing:

Michelle and I were saddened to hear about the passing of Andy Griffith this morning. A performer of extraordinary talent, Andy was beloved by generations of fans and revered by entertainers who followed in his footsteps. He brought us characters from Sheriff Andy Taylor to Ben Matlock, and in the process, warmed the hearts of Americans everywhere. Our thoughts and prayers are with Andy’s family.

Griffith passed away early Tuesday morning at the age of 86 -- details surrounding his cause of death have not been released at this time. The actor was best known as Sheriff Andy Taylor on "The Andy Griffith Show," and later as a criminal defense attorney on "Matlock."